Old Testament

Jeremiah 31:17

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

"There is hope for your future," declares the LORD. "Your children will come back to their own land."

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And there is hope in thine end, saith the LORD, that thy children shall come again to their own border.

What Jeremiah 31:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God reassures His people that despite their current struggles and exile, there is a promise of hope for the future. The mention of children returning to their own land symbolizes restoration and the continuation of family and heritage. This message is particularly significant for those who feel lost or abandoned, as it emphasizes that God has a plan for their future. The assurance that their children will return indicates that God is not only concerned about the present but also about future generations. This promise serves as a reminder that even in difficult times, God’s faithfulness remains, and He will bring about a restoration that includes the next generation. The verse encourages believers to hold onto hope, trusting that God will fulfill His promises and bring them back to a place of safety and belonging.

How to apply Jeremiah 31:17 to your life

In times of uncertainty, remember that God offers hope for the future. Trust in His promises and pray for the restoration of relationships and communities. Encourage others who may feel hopeless, reminding them that God has a plan for their lives and their families.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Jeremiah 31:17

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Jeremiah 31:17

At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 31:17 mean for my family?

Jeremiah 31:17 offers a powerful message of hope for families, assuring that despite current struggles, there is a promise of restoration. It emphasizes that God cares about the future of your children and family heritage. This verse encourages you to trust in God's plan for your family's future, reminding you that even in difficult times, there is hope for healing and reunion.

How can I find hope in difficult times according to this verse?

This verse reminds us that hope is always present, even in challenging situations. To find hope, focus on God's promises and His faithfulness. Engage in prayer, seek community support, and reflect on past experiences where God has brought restoration. Remember that just as God promised the return of children to their land, He has a plan for your life and future, encouraging you to hold onto that hope.

What does 'children will come back to their own land' symbolize?

The phrase 'children will come back to their own land' symbolizes restoration and the continuation of family and heritage. It signifies that God will bring back those who feel lost or displaced, not just physically but also spiritually. This promise highlights the importance of family connections and the hope that future generations will thrive in a place of safety and belonging.

How does this verse apply to modern life?

In modern life, Jeremiah 31:17 serves as a reminder that hope exists even amid uncertainty. It encourages individuals to trust in God's promises for their future and the future of their loved ones. This verse can inspire you to work towards rebuilding relationships and communities, fostering a sense of belonging and safety, and sharing hope with others who may feel hopeless.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.